This book is a timely and groundbreaking work, combining meticulous research with lavish four-color maps, illustrations, prints and photographs. It is a sublime combination of the efforts of celebrated reference writer and author Paul Rozario, a collection of international photographers, and a Singapore-based editorial and production team that has won numerous awards in editorial excellence and design distinction across Asia, the United States and Europe.

Spreading Deserts
Almost a third of the Earth’s surface supports unique plant communities, from forests to grasslands. But this land is being degraded at an alarming rate. Deforestation and bad farming methods remove around 24 billion tons of fertile soil each year. Spreading Deserts takes an in-depth look into the problem of desertification. Topical examples show how it has affected different regions, from the destruction of ecosystems to famine, as well as the countries organizations and individuals working to prevent further damage.

LiberiaFrom the Critics--Children's Literature
Part of the "Countries of the World" series, this book will inform readers of not only the geography, history and culture of the African nation of Liberia, but will provide insight into what it is like for its citizens to live there today. Written by an author who specializes in African titles, it will draw students in with the short, but information rich, two-page chapters that cover many of the diverse cultural and economic issues that face this struggling nation.

LibyaFrom the Publisher
Located in the north of the African continent, Libya has a history that dates back to ancient times. A diverse group of peoples have made their homes in Libya's mainly desert landscape. From the discovery of oil to the growing of dates and citrus fruits, from the ruins of Tripolitania to the Great Manmade River Project, and from the regime of Colonel Mu'ammar Qadhafi to the nomadic Tuareg people, this book showcases a land with a rich heritage that is largely isolated from the rest of the world.